12 Best Places to Visit in Croatia on a Road Trip

Trying to plan the perfect Croatia road trip? Look no further as this guide will make it really easy for you to plan. We will take you through the best places to visit in Croatia on a road trip in one single trip and hopefully without spending too much time at the wheel. The best places to visit in Croatia are best reached by car. You would really miss out on some of the most beautiful places in Croatia and the country’s most scenic road, specifically the D8 /E65 road if you didn’t drive. 

We recently had a wonderful 10-day Croatia road trip. As loyal fans of Croatia, Tyrone and I have had multiple trips to the country. We just can’t get over how much Croatia has to offer.

Croatia is an enticing country with a varied natural landscape featuring over 1, 200 islands (47 inhabited), huge mountain ranges, dense forests, magical rivers, waterfalls and cascading lakes of remarkable shades of blue and green such as those found in the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

The country’s landscape is an absolute natural playground for all sorts of outdoor sports. 

Croatia’s 1, 777 km long coastline runs along the Adriatic Sea and is brimful of magnificent cities, towns and villages home to unspoiled old towns. Some of these are considered Europe’s finest historically and architecturally, in particular Dubrovnik or lesser-known Šibenik and Trogir.

Croatia’s history and cultural heritage is pretty unique and fascinating to explore especially for history lovers. It’s inspired by the many cultures who’ve presided over it throughout the centuries like the Romans, Venetians, Austro-Hungarians and more recently Socialists.

During turbulent times in the country’s history, solid defensive walls, huge fortresses and enormous towers were built to defend the old cities from threats. Quite a lot are today, famous tourist destinations, thanks to the popular Game of Thrones T.V. show being filmed in those places.

In addition, Croatia’s pleasant Mediterranean climate together with diverse delicious cuisine, a rich coffee, wine and beer culture, is the perfect combination for an unforgettable experience. 

There are endless reasons to get excited about Croatia. 

Firstly, Croatia Travel Tips for Road-tripping.

1. Croatia Road Trip Map

2. Best time to visit Croatia

May, June, September and early October are the most ideal months for a Croatia road trip because temperatures are pleasant, prices and crowds are lower. July and August see high temperatures with crowds in most places which can make driving, especially along the Dalmatian Coast road a nightmare.

3. How many days do you need for a Croatia road trip? 

A 10-day road trip will allow you to see a decent amount of the best places in Croatia, but you’ll be moving at a fast pace. However, if you’ve more time, a 14-day road trip is ideal as you’ll have time to explore properly without rushing.

We are leaving you to decide your own personal timeline for this road trip guide. The times suggested in the guide for each stop are our own recommendation. 

4. Car Hire 

Make sure to book your car rental well ahead. You can use DiscoverCars to quickly compare prices. Opt to collect the car in Zagreb city centre as you probably won’t need it to explore the city. 

To save time, choose to do a straight route and pick a car hire that allows you to return at your departure point.

5. Flying into Croatia

We recommend flying into Zagreb and leaving from Dubrovnik for this Croatia road trip. Zagreb Airport (Franjo Tuđman Airport), located 15 km from the city centre is the best airport to fly into Zagreb. The airport has the most connections with other European cities with some direct international flights. 

However, if you wish to skip Zagreb and rather stick to the coastal areas, you can choose to fly to Zadar, Split or Dubrovnik.

6. Getting to Zagreb by Train

Zagreb is serviced by a train station which links it to many other cities in Europe. You can choose to get to Zagreb by train and start your Croatia road trip from there. See Zagreb train tips here.

Tip – It’s possible to get to the places in this guide by bus. BusCroatia is a good platform to check your options. 

7. Plan your Road Trip with a Navigation App

Google Maps is my favourite choice for planning and navigating any road trip. Among other things, it gives more accurate directions, real-time traffic updates a selection of tolled and non-tolled routes.

I suppose there are plenty of other navigation apps, but it’s important to choose one that’s easy for you to use. 

8. Driving in Croatia

Most highways and national roads in Croatia are well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate. Take special care when driving on secondary or rural roads as they tend to be less tendered to. 

9. Visiting Croatian Islands by Car 

 Jadrolinija Ferry is the Croatian National Ferry Company which offers extensive connections to the islands in Croatia.

I’ve only ever used Jadrolinija and never had any issues. Just keep up to date with their timetables as they change seasonally.

10. Booking Your Accommodation

To put your mind at rest, book your accommodation well ahead once you’ve decided on your Croatia road trip length. Booking.com and Airbnb are great resources for booking accommodation in Croatia.

I tend to favour Booking.com as it offers flexible cancellation.

Let’s get started!

Best Places to Visit in Croatia

Stop 1 – Explore Zagreb

(2 Days)

Zagreb, the capital and largest city of Croatia, is the perfect destination to start with during your road trip. The city, located in northern Croatia, is often overshadowed by the more famous coastal cities and islands in the southern areas of the country.

However, Zagreb is an amazing city worth visiting for its varied fascinating history and cultural heritage visible in the city’s architecture, museums, food and drink culture.

Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, Grand Austro-Hungarian-inspired buildings, squares and parks dominate the city centre of Zagreb. Its outer parts, south of the Sava River, feature architecture representative of the Socialist era.

Zagreb’s strong coffee, beer and food culture echoes Eastern, Western and Mediterranean tones. Luckily, Zagreb is fairly cheap with some really cool places to explore its culinary scene.

The city is a well-known hub for some of the best festivals in Croatia. Obviously, the city’s month-long Advent festival is chief of all, however, you’re bound to come by a really exciting festival no matter what time of the year you visit Zagreb. 

There is no better way than to plan your visit to Zagreb around one of its countless festivals hosted throughout the year. They’re the perfect places to absorb the city’s vibrant culture. 

Our Top Picks of Things to Do in Zagreb

• Take a Zagreb Walking Tour – It’s the best activity to do in Zagreb as it will give you a quick overview of the city’s unique history and show you the best spots to try from a local’s perspective.

Most tours start from Ban Jelacic Square, Zagreb’s main square and will bring you along to see top attractions in the city such as Zagreb Cathedral, the famous red-tiled St Mark’s Church, vibrant Tkalčićeva Street and what is left of the old medieval fortifications including the 13th century Lotrščak Tower.

NB – Most Zagreb attractions like the Cathedral and St Mark’s were damaged by the earthquake in 2020. They’re both closed for visits until renovations are completed.

• Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships – One-of-a-kind museum showcasing heart-touching stories and items from relationship break-ups.

• Get drinks at Valhalla Metal Bar (Radića Street) – It’s the place to go if you’re serious about your beer. They have an impressive beer selection including craft beers.

• Try Štrukli – Štrukli is a Croatian dish popular in Zagreb consisting of a dough filled with cream cheese with either savoury or sweet additions and baked or boiled. La Štruk (Skalinska St) do it really well, so don’t bother looking elsewhere.

• Take a stroll through Zrinjevac Park – Zrinjevac Park is a small gorgeous park perfect for a relaxed city stroll, located a short walking distance from the main square.

It’s beautifully decorated with manicured lawns, colourful flowers, a music pavilion and historic time and weather instruments. It’s a popular spot for festivals in the city, so don’t miss it.

• Check out Dolac Market – Shop for local products and soak up the local atmosphere by checking out Dolac Market. It’s the city’s main farmer’s market famous for its traditional red umbrellas.

Getting Around Zagreb

• Zagreb is relatively small. Most of its attractions are close to each other and easily reached on foot, so you shouldn’t need to drive.

• Zagreb Funicular  – provides a quick ride to travel between the upper town and lower town districts (0.66€ – 1 min ride).

• Public Transport – Offered through an extensive tram and bus (ZET – Zagreb Electric Tram) system, connecting the city centre with residential neighbourhoods. It’s the most affordable means to get around in Zagreb.

• Taxis – are widely available, metred and relatively cheap. 

Where to stay in Zagreb

• Esplanade Hotel – A 5-star historic hotel famously built to host Orient Express passengers. It’s located across from the Zagreb Train Station.

• Best Western Premier Hotel Astoria – A mid-range hotel, located close to the Zagreb Train Station and about a 10-minute walk to Ban Jelačić Square. The hotel is housed in a 1932 building but its interior is modern and tastefully decorated.

• Swanky Mint Hostel – Budget-friendly hostel with a bar and pool, located just an 8-minute walk from the main square.

Tip: Discover more Things to Do in Zagreb in 2 Days and the most useful tips.

Stop 2 – Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park 

(Half Day) 

Driving Distance: Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes 129km (2hrs)

Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, is truly breathtaking. The park simply looks like something out of a fairy tale and it’s easy to see why it’s commonly called, Europe’s most beautiful nature park.

Plitvice Lakes definitely deserves the top spot on any list of the best places to visit in Croatia on a road trip, especially for nature lovers.

Picture countless large interconnected lakes of brilliant shades of blue, green and crystal clear waters seamlessly flowing into a river system creating spectacular waterfalls.

Adding to the magic is a distinct karst landscape, dense green forest and a winding network of wooden trails and bridges flanking the lakes and waterfalls. 

Eight well-laid-out walking trails ranging from 2 hours to 8 hours in length, and electric boats at different points in the park allow you to explore 16 of its lakes.

The lakes and waterfalls are situated at various elevations, so it’s really exciting to walk through the various trails as every turn opens to a dramatic scene.

There are many native plants, aquatic and wild animals in Plitvice Lakes. From dragonflies and nesting birds to venomous snakes and stone crayfish. 

The dense forests in the park are said to shelter large endangered carnivores such as the brown bear, the grey wolf and the Eurasian lynx.

Unfortunately, it’s unlikely that you’ll get to see any of these carnivores as they prefer quietness and the thick forests in the park carry enough prey to keep them satisfied.

Tips for Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Price – Adults €40, Students €25, Child €15 Prices (Vary with season and time of visit) (2 Day Ticket €59.70 Adult) 

• Ideal Time to Visit – Make the most of your time at Plitvice Lakes by getting online tickets and getting to the park as it opens at 7 a.m. or after 16.00. This helps to avoid crowds, difficulties with parking, issues with navigating the paths and queuing up to take your Plitvice photos especially if visiting at the peak of summer. 

• Getting to Plitvice Lakes  – Zagreb to Split A1 highway has clear directions and with the help of your Google navigation, you shouldn’t really have any issues. 

• Park Entrances – There are three entrances to Plitvice Lakes. Directions for entrances are clearly marked as you approach the park. All come with parking, ticket offices and amenities. Tip – Choose Entrance 3 if you want to avoid crowds. 

• Parking Fees – Starts from €1.50 hourly and is offered at all entrances.

• Navigating the Park – Maps with the park’s 8 walking trails can be found at all entrances. You choose the one that suits your time, what you wish to see and your fitness level. 

• Clothing – Bring along comfortable outdoor clothing as the walking paths can be slippery and rugged in some parts.

• Amenities – Numerous restaurants, snacks and coffee shops are dotted around the park. Equally, you can choose to pack a picnic bag as the park offers plenty of seating and washing facilities.

• Overnight Stays  – Three hotels, Hotel Plitvice, Hotel Jezero and Hotel Bellevue, are located within Plitvice Lakes in case you’re moving at a slow pace and wish to stay overnight.

The area around Plitvice Lakes National is quite rural, however, various accommodations which include camping sites, private lodges and hotels are available within short distances away from the park, but book well ahead to guarantee good rates and good quality options. 

Plitvice Lakes Hotel Recommendations:  

• Hotel Lyra – (15min drive from the park) 4-star hotel recently built with minimalist design.
• Lakeside Hotel  – 10 km drive from the park’s Entrance 1 and a  5-minute walk to Entrance 3. It’s a comfortably cosy hotel.
• Hotel Degenija – 4 km away from the park. Features modern furnishings and a pool.

Stop – Explore Rastoke in Slunj

(2-3 Hrs)

Driving Distance: Rastoke to Plitvice Lakes 27 km (25 mins)

Rastoke, located in the town of Slunj and a 25-minute drive from Plitvice Lakes National Park, is up there for us, on the list of the best places to visit in Croatia. 

The traditional houses and mills of Rastoke were impressively built atop patches of land on the junction between Slunjčica and Korana Rivers.

Similar to Plitvice Lakes National Park albeit smaller, countless cascading waterfalls and rapids of varying sizes formed by the two rivers create a magical sight.

The village of Rastoke itself dates back to the 17th century though most of the houses and mills that remain in the village were built during the late 19th century. 

Over the years, the village suffered a decline in population due to advances in milling technologies and as with other areas in Central Croatia, was heavily damaged during the Homeland War (1991-1995).

Luckily, the village received some restoration whilst preserving its simple rural charm.

Make the small Rastoke ethnographic museum (Fee Charged) your first point of call. It’s a great stop to learn the past and traditions of this old milling village.

Take your time exploring the old mills which are connected by wooden footbridges, a peaceful green space home to a fairy garden and countless viewing points to admire the waterfalls.

If you’ve time to spare, a walk along the banks of River Slunjčica is another great way to enjoy the beauty of Rastoke’s landscape.

Getting to Rastoke

Either stop in Rastoke whilst driving from Zagreb or return to it after you’re done with Plitvice Lakes.

Parking in Rastoke

Paid parking is available across the bridge in the centre of the village.

Stop 4 – Restaurant Ambar Rastoke

We had a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Ambar during our visit to Rastoke and we can’t recommend it enough. The restaurant is located high up on a hill and just beneath the ruins of the 19th-century Napoleon Warehouse.

Restaurant Ambar is the ideal place to enjoy fresh and authentic Croatian dishes given a modern twist using local and seasonal produce. 

The restaurant’s menu at Ambar is created by renowned Croatian chef Mate Jankovic. It showcases the best of the region, so you can expect freshwater trout, risotto, pasta and seasonal vegetables served with bread made from freshly milled flour.

Meals are paired with Croatian wines as well as locally produced craft beers.

Restaurant Ambar’s modern and chic furnishings and a terrace offering stunning views of Rastoke Valley together with friendly service are the icing on the cake. 

Stop – Visit Zadar

(2 Days) 

Driving Distance: Plitvice Lakes National Park to Zadar 118 km (1.5hrs)

Zadar is the fifth largest city in Croatia located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea in the country’s Dalmatian northern region.

The city deserves a spot on any list of the best places to visit in Croatia on a road trip due to its wealth in ancient history, stunning coastline and countless laid-back Adriatic islands, all to be enjoyed without crowds.

The city flourished under Roman times and this is attested by the remnants of an ancient Roman Forum which is said in its time was the largest on the Adriatic Coast.

A collection of pre-romanesque and gothic churches such as the 9th century St. Donatus Church were built in Zadar post-Roman period whilst the Venetian era brought Renaissance influence to the city’s make-up. 

Over the centuries, the city suffered from conflicts and wars similar to other cities in the region.

However, among other things, recent modern artistic and architectural installations have revived the city and transformed it into a vibrant tourist destination with the charm of a small city.

Our Top Picks of Things to Do in Zadar

• Take a Walking Tour – Zadar’s compact Old Town makes for a perfect walking tour as there is so much interesting history and architecture, captivating local stories, ancient streets and squares to be discovered.

• Take a stroll along the Riva – The Riva is Zadar’s picturesque promenade. It’s the perfect spot to take leisurely seaside walks whilst taking gorgeous views of the Adriatic Sea, stunning yachts and islands in the distance.

• Watch the Sunset – Zadar’s sunset is truly extraordinary. Screenwriter Alfred Hitchcock thought Zadar’s sunset was the most beautiful he had ever seen.

The Sea Organ and the colorful light show from the Greeting to the Sun Monument (Sun Salutation) along the Riva, are new inventions along Zadar’s Riva which elevate the experience of watching the sunset along the Riva.

• Taste local dishes – Zadar is an excellent destination to enjoy classic Croatian dishes and desserts with both Mediterranean and mainland influences. 

Fresh seafood, black risotto, slow-roasted meats and vegetables cooked on an open fire (Peka), Dalmatian slow-cooked stewed beef (pasticada), regional desserts and liqueur features in most good restaurants.

4 Kantuna, Restaurant Bruschetta and Pet Bunara are our top favourite Zadar restaurants.

• Check Zadar Market – It’s my favourite place to stock up on local produce such as Pag cheese, olives, fresh figs and pastries (crispy Kroštule and Fritule, mini doughnuts are my favourite), all perfect road trip snacks.

• Take a day trip – Depending on your interests and preferences, you’ve got a choice of exploring some of Zadar beaches, small quaint villages like Nin, picturesque and laid-back islands like Ugljan and Dugi Otok and national parks perfect for outdoor activities like Paklenica National Park and Kornati National Park. 

Ugljan, Dugi Otok and Pag Islands are excellent for a peaceful retreat from the busyness of the city. They offer secluded beaches and coves, unique natural landscapes, a chance to explore, local cuisine and fascinating traditions such as cheese and lace making and delicious local cuisine.

• Go Rafting in Zrmanja River – Consider a day out rafting or kayaking on the Zrmanja River, especially if you’ve got kids with you. It’s one of our top favourite experiences in Zadar.  

Tip: Discover more Things to Do in Zadar and Zadar Travel Tips for First Time Visit 

Stop 6 – Sibenik

(1 Day)

Driving Distance: Zadar to Sibenik 75.7 km (1. 5hrs)

Sibenik is easily my favourite city in Croatia. It’s one of Croatia’s top real hidden gems that should be on any list of the best places to visit in Croatia.

The city boasts two UNESCO World Heritage Sites namely Cathedral of St James and St Nicholas Fortress. The Cathedral is said to be a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture whilst St Nicholas Fortress, located at the entrance of Sibenik’s harbour, is highly admired as a masterpiece of Renaissance military architecture. 

Sibenik’s medieval Old Town with its quaint and narrow cobblestone streets and squares has seen few modern interventions as a result it offers a true representation of medieval Croatia.

It’s really easy to see why Sibenik is an excellent unique setting for a medieval fantasy show. Some Game of Thrones TV series scenes were filmed in Sibenik, so don’t miss it if you’re a fan of the show.

The city has stayed true to its roots, so it’s the perfect place to visit for warm Croatian hospitality, and feast on Dalmatian cuisine and local wines whilst also enjoying the beauty of the Adriatic Sea. 

Sibenik Travel Tips

Parking in Sibenik – Several paid parking lots are available all within the Old Town’s vicinity. The market parking lot is the closest and most handy to get to the Old Town. 

Staying Overnight – Here are some good choices to check out:

• Bellevue Superior City Hotel –  Located a few steps from the Old Town, offers modern and stylish rooms overlooking the Sibenik waterfront. 
• Hostel Scala – A boutique hostel in Downtown Sibenik offering a swimming pool, parking, onsite restaurant and a bar.

Day Trips – Like most cities along the Dalmatian coast, Sibenik has a fair share of islands, national parks, charming villages and vineyards to explore within its vicinity. 

The atmosphere is relaxed and low-key in Sibenik. If it feels like your kind of fun, choose to take a private boat ride or ferry to nearby islands such as Zmajan, Kakan and Murter and spend the day in the water swimming or snorkelling or just taking leisurely walks in nature or exploring charming villages.

Winery Visits – Sibenik and surrounding areas aren’t really well-known wine regions in Croatia. However, there are some really good up-and-coming wineries as well as a few established wineries that are highly regarded, all worth checking out if you’re keen to explore Croatia’s wine scene. 

Here are a few wineries worth checking out when in the area:

• Bibich Winery – An award-winning winery offering both Croatian and international varieties. It’s located in Skradin, a 30-minute drive from Sibenik.  A variety of tasting options, tours of their vineyards and a really good accompanying restaurant, are offered in a fabulous setting.

• Testament Winery – An organic winery located 20 minutes away from Sibenik. Offers tasting of local varieties like Pošip and Babić in their vineyard with fantastic views of the Adriatic Sea and Sibenik city.

• Baraka Winery – A small winery located about a 15-minute drive from Sibenik towards Vodice. They offer tasting of local and international varieties and an onsite restaurant in a beautiful setting overlooking their vineyards. 

Tip: See our full guide to explore Sibenik in One Day here.

Stop 7 – Krka Waterfalls National Park

(Half-Day Trip) 

Driving Distance: Sibenik to Krka National Park  13 km (20 mins)

Price: Adults: €40, Students €25, Child €15 Prices

Sibenik is one of the best places to stay in Croatia when visiting Krka Waterfalls. Both Lozovac and Skradin entrances to Krka are less than a 20-minute drive away from Sibenik. 

Definitely, Krka is one of the best places to visit in Croatia but if you’ve done Plitvice Lakes National Park, adding Krka as well to your road trip might not be economical and a good use of time. 

Both parks are true natural gems, however, Plitvice Lakes is superior. It’s larger with well-presented paths, the landscape is more dramatic and the distinct shades of blue and green of the lakes and waterfalls are more dramatic unlike in Krka.

Also, if you made a stop in the milling village of Rastoke, then, you would have got a glimpse of a traditional water mill village which also happens to be presented within Krka National Park.

Obviously, if you’ve time or can’t bear to miss out on any fun like ourselves, definitely add Krka National Park to your Croatia road trip itinerary.

We’ve used both entrances and personally prefer the Lozovac Entrance. The entrance comes with free hassle-free parking space, is less crowded and the ride on the shuttle bus offers wonderful views of the Krka River.

Stop 8 – Trogir (Half Day)

Driving Distance: Sibenik to Trogir 62 km (1. ¾ hrs)

Trogir is an attractive town worthy of a spot on your list of the best places to go in Croatia on your road trip.

It’s another historical treasure of Croatia as the whole town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the significant amount of well-preserved buildings of high architectural value found in it.

A visit to Trogir is a real treat for history enthusiasts or fans of original medieval architecture. The town is awash with Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque-style churches, both public and private buildings including fine palaces.

Trogir Cathedral’s 13th-century main entrance commonly referred to as Radovan’s Portal is really impressive. It’s said to be one of the best examples of Romanesque sculpture and architecture in Croatia. 

A stroll through Trogir’s labyrinth of narrow cobbled stone streets and squares uncovering its treasures feels like stepping back in time and a memorable experience.

On top of all that, the Old Town is situated on an island in the Adriatic Sea connected by bridges to the mainland and another bigger island, Ciovo Island. It really is a uniquely beautiful town and one of the best in Croatia.

After soaking up all the interesting history and architecture, head to Gelato Bar Bella for a really well-earned gelato. It’s the best in town, so don’t look elsewhere.

Trogir Travel Tips

• Parking in Trogir – Trogir can be very busy during the peak tourist season, however, you’re guaranteed to find paid parking in the lot beside Trogir market. 

• Staying in Trogir Overnight – Trogir makes for a convenient base to explore other attractions in the area such as Split or Krka National Waterfalls, especially if the idea of a small town appeals to you. 

Accommodation in Trogir tends to be private rentals located in and around the Old Town as well as on the nearby Ciovo Island. 

Booking.com and Airbnb are great resources to find accommodation in Trogir, so give them a quick look. 

Where to eat in Trogir – You’d be hard-pressed to find restaurants to eat tasty dishes that aren’t overpriced or purely tourist-orientated in Trogir. We recently found a really good one worth checking out in case you’re feeling peckish.

• Don Dino Trogir – is a well-established family-run restaurant in the centre of Trogir Old Town. It’s famed for its scrumptious menu which makes use of top quality locally sourced produce to create Mediterranean-inspired Croatian favourites and more. 

It’s difficult to choose at Don Dino as all the dishes are really good, however, if you love your fish, for a starter don’t miss the tuna tartar or white fish carpaccio and for the main meal, my favourites are the smoked risotto with mussels and shrimps or an octopus peka.

There is something for every palate at Don Dino, so give it a try. 

Their drinks and wines menu is really good as well. They offer a good selection of both Croatian bottles and international varieties. 

An intimately decorated outdoor terrace overlooking the busy streets of Trogir together with top-notch service makes Don Dino the perfect place for an excellent dining experience.

Tip: Here is a full guide to spending One Perfect Day in Trogir

Stop 9 – Split

(2 Days)

Driving Distance and Time: Trogir to Split  27 km (30 mins)

There is no complete Croatia road trip itinerary that should exclude a stop in Split, Croatia’s second-largest city.

Split is an exceptionally unique city which is dominated by the mighty Diocletian Palace, a former Roman Palace, built around the turn of the 4th century as a lavish retirement home for Roman Emperor Diocletian.

Interestingly, the palace is home to the city of Split Centre furnished with bustling streets, business buildings, and private homes.

Diocletian Palace is unsurprisingly a UNESCO World Heritage. From your first visit, you’ll spot the fortified walls, towers and gates encasing the palace.

Inside the palace, you’re treated to magnificent Roman architecture, historic churches, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque palaces and a maze of quaint narrow stone streets. 

The late gothic 15th-century Papalić Palace houses the Split City Museum. It’s worth a stop to discover fascinating insights regarding the Diocletian Palace and its development as a modern city over the centuries. 

Diocletian Palace is truly breathtaking and definitely, the best place to visit in Croatia on a road trip. 

It’s also easy to see why Split didn’t escape becoming a picturesque backdrop for the popular Game of Thrones TV show scenes. 

Add to all that, Split lies along the beautiful Adriatic Sea. Its lively palm tree-lined waterfront or Riva is connected to the palace and is a hub for entertainment in the city.

It offers countless cafes and bars, a lot of ice cream shops, scenic seaside walkways, boats and ferry stations offering links to islands within its vicinity such as Hvar, Brac and Vis.

Tip: See Things to do in Split in One Week including useful tips and where to find the Best Beaches in Split including sandy beaches and pebbly beaches.

Pick an Island to Visit

Stop 10 – Hvar Island (Day Trip)

Jadrolinija Car Ferry – Split Port to Stari Grad (2hrs)

Catch the car ferry from Split Port to Stari Grad on Hvar Island to visit Croatia’s most famous island. The island is located in the wonderful Adriatic Sea, directly across from Split and is an exciting stop on any visit to Croatia.

Hvar Islands’ popularity as one of the best places to visit in Croatia is rightly justified. The island offers a nice mix of pretty historical towns and villages offering a variety of experiences and gorgeous landscapes sheltering stunning beaches and coves, slopes covered in a lush forest, olive groves and vineyards.

In days gone by, Hvar Island thrived as a Venetian settlement. Hvar Town, the island’s main town, is a true testament to that era. A stroll through Hvar’s attractive stone streets and squares opens up to countless Venetian, Renaissance and Baroque-styled buildings. 

The town’s stylishly decorated harbour seamlessly blends with the town while the 16th-century Hvar Fortress which overlooks the city transport you back to mediaeval times.

Unlike other islands or tourist places on mainland Croatia, Hvar Town attracts a significant number of young people because it’s considered the best place to go in Croatia for beaches and nightlife.

However, don’t let this put you off as the island has many beautiful quieter spots to be explored, especially the fact that you’re travelling to the island by car. 

Our Top Picks of Things to Do in Hvar in One Day 

• Tourist Information Center (St Stephen’s Square) – A great place to start to get tips on the best spots to see on the island.

• Take a stroll through Hvar Town – Check out the quaint streets, stop by historic buildings like St Stephen’s Church and Square, Arsenal and Theatre, and take a stroll along the harbour.

• Visit the Franciscan Monastery – It’s home to an impressive giant “Last Supper Painting” and various other notable artworks. There is also a lovely garden with a 300-year-old Cypress tree. The garden offers lovely views of Hvar and the Pakleni Islands in the Adriatic Sea. 

• Explore Hvar Cafes and Bars – If you’re feeling peckish, check out Fig Hvar, in Downtown Hvar, they have a really good breakfast, brunch and dinner menu.

•  Indulge at aROMA Gelato Boutique – It’s an absolute must if you appreciate a good gelato. The gelato is creamy, light and flavourful. You won’t be disappointed with any choice you make. I got to try the mango and caramel sea salt while Tyrone tried the vegan extra dark chocolate and coconut. Both choices were really good.

• Take a hike up to Hvar Fortress – the views of Hvar and the sea are beautiful. 

• Take a scenic drive to the Lavender fields.

Hvar Travel Tips

Getting to Hvar by car – The only way to bring a car to Hvar Island from Split is to take the Jadrolinija Ferry from Split Port to Stari Grad (a town on Hvar Island). Once in Stari Grad, the drive to Hvar Town is a straightforward 20-minute journey. 

Parking in Hvar Town  – There are many private parking lots around the entrance to Hvar Town (Charges are minimal). 

Stop 11 – Brac Island (Day Trip)

Jadrolinija Ferry – Split Port to Supetar, Brac Island (50mins)

Brac Island, located in Croatia’s Adriatic Sea and just 50 minutes away from Split Port, is one of the closest and easiest islands to visit from Split Port. 

I have to admit that Brac Island is my favourite island off Split Coast. It has everything that I adore. Gorgeous secluded beaches, charming laid-back towns and fishing villages, fresh seafood, beautiful wine, fresh olive oil and scenic walking trails.

Brac Island is famously known for its picturesque Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn Beach) which is said to change shape with wind direction. There is no doubt that Zlatni Rat is one of the best beaches in Croatia, however, a popular beach like Zlatni Rat attracts huge crowds.

Luckily, the island has plenty of other quieter and nice beaches to unwind, soak up the sun and spend some time in the water. 

Brac Island happens to be one of the most rugged and mountainous islands in the Adriatic Sea with a peak higher than all other islands in the region.

It might be interesting for you to know that the limestone found on this rocky island was used to build magnificent buildings such as the Diocletian Palace, the Cathedral of St James in Sibenik and allegedly, the US White House.

For the active ones, Brac Island is a perfect place for scenic walks or cycling on its slopes. A hike up to Vidova Gora, the island’s highest mountain, offers incredible views of the famous Zlatni Rat Beach lying on its foothills, the deep-blue Adriatic Sea and other islands beyond.

The island has some interesting history influenced by the many civilisations that have passed through it over the centuries. If this is your kind of fun, be sure to drop by the Island of Brac Museum.

Tip: We feel lucky to have spent a week on Brac Island. We’ve created a guide sharing the Best Things to Do on Brac Island including many useful tips.

Stop 12 – Dubrovnik (2 Days)

Driving Distance: Split to Dubrovnik Via E65 240 km (3.5 Hrs)

Driving the coastal road from Split to Dubrovnik always gets me really excited about road-tripping in Croatia.

It’s a breathtaking stretch of road with dramatic slopes, twists and turns which reveals a splendid view of the deep blue Adriatic Sea and endless gorgeous towns and villages with beautiful beaches and architecture.

With that being said, the icing on the cake at the end of this drive is the magnificent Dubrovnik, the so-called “ Pearl of the Adriatic”. Dubrovnik, located on the tip of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, is truly a one-of-a-kind destination and unsurprisingly a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The walled city’s remarkably well-preserved Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque churches, palaces, defensive forts and harbour offer a glimpse of a thriving Mediterranean mediaeval state. 

A city packed with history and cultural heritage like Dubrovnik deserves a Walking Tour to fully discover it. Go it alone if visiting during peak tourist season as it can be a hassle to stay in a group amid crowds.

I’ve found it more enjoyable to go solo, especially to tour the old city walls with so many wonderful views to admire.

However, for Game of Thrones fans, a Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Walking Tour is a must! 

When you arrive in Dubrovnik, kick things off by consulting the travel expert at the Tourist Information Center for the best local tips to enjoy Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik Travel Tips

Parking in Dubrovnik

• It’s challenging to find parking anywhere near the Old Town. Check if your accommodation offers parking and use public transport to get to the Old Town.

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik 

• We’ve stayed at Scalini Palace twice and can’t recommend it enough. It’s a charmingly renovated 16th-century palace located just a few steps from the main street in the Old Town.

Tip::Here is The Ultimate Guide to Dubrovnik for First-Time Visitors The guide shares our suggestions of things to do in Dubrovnik, day trips to take and many other useful tips. 

Optional Stops – Split to Dubrovnik 

If you’re not in a hurry to move on, the places below are some of the best places to go in Croatia, perfect as detours on your Split to Dubrovnik drive.

Omis Town 

Omis is located just a 30-minute drive from Split. It’s a picturesque town between dramatic cliffs on a junction where River Cetina merges with the Adriatic Sea. The town is one of the popular tourist destinations in Croatia for outdoor adventures, particularly white-rafting along River Cetina, hiking and rock climbing.

Check out our favourite Cetina River Rafting Tour here.

Makarska Riviera 

A popular destination in Croatia for holiday, home to numerous pretty small towns and villages with a rich history and really beautiful beaches, though, like most beaches in Croatia pebbly.

Everyone who’s been to Makarska Riviera has their favourite town or village. I prefer Makarska Town for its wide scenic waterfront, tiny but cool cafes and bars in its Old Town, decent seaside walking trails and easier navigation when driving. 

Brela is also really good, especially for the beaches. 

The Biokovo Skywalk 

Biokovo Skywalk is one of the new best things to do in Croatia worth checking out, especially if travelling with children.

As the name suggests, the Biokovo Skywalk features a viewing platform made out of clear glass wedged on a cliff measuring 1228 metres high.

You get to enjoy the natural beauty of the Biokovo massif and the Makarska Riviera below.

Tip – Book your car time slot online if planning to visit. 

Ston and Mali Ston 

Ston is a small town located at the start of Pelješac Peninsula (a wine and olive growing region), an hour’s drive from Dubrovnik.

The town is famous for its 15th-century defensive walls, a quaint small old town and together with the neighbouring village of Mali Ston, are said to be the best places to go to in Croatia for oysters and mussels paired with good quality wine from the Peljesac peninsula. 

Mljet Island (Mljet National Park)

Mljet Island is one of the most beautiful islands close to Dubrovnik. Most of Mljet Island falls under Mljet National Park, so it’s well preserved.

The island is the best place to go in Croatia for quiet moments in unspoilt nature surrounded by a lush landscape, stunning saltwater lakes, beaches and a bit of history. 

Tip – Jadrolinija Car ferry to Mljet Island leaves from Prapratno on the Pelješac Peninsula, a 10-minute drive from Ston. 

Good to Know

Interested in exploring more of Croatia’s beautiful nature and wildlife? Consider checking out Kopački Rit Nature Park. It’s home to one of Europe’s most preserved flood plains with numerous bird species. 

Happy Croatia Road-tripping!

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